Oui: An Eiffel Tower also exists in Paris, Texas.

The big one in France is more than 1,000 feet tall, but Paris, Texas has a replica structure that measures 70 feet tall. A big reason why the Texas landmark is somewhat distinct is that it’s adorned with a big red cowboy hat that sits atop the summit of the 70-foot structure.

The Texas tower is at the corner of Jefferson Road and South Collegiate Drive, adjacent to Love Civic Center. As for the city of Paris itself, it is in the heart of Red River Valley and was recognized in 1998 for being the “Best Small Town in Texas” in a book entitled, The New Rating Guide to Life in America’s Small Cities. Paris was actually founded in 1839 and became incorporated in 1845, and the dark metal tower replica was commemorated in 1993.

The tower goes along with other unusual sites in this Texas community. Attractions include a grave monument with Jesus in cowboy boots, plus the entrance at Paris Junior College is decorated with a statue of its cartoon dragon mascot. There is also an actual working oil derrick in town, even though there is no oil in Paris or Lamar County. It was transported to Paris years ago from East Texas.